Case of the missing Minion: RCMP replace stolen Christmas decoration in Victoria

WhateverChristmas spirit was dashed when a thiefstole an inflatable Minion Christmas decoration in Conception Bay North hasbeen replaced and then some.

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Crystal Fagan's two children Mackenzie, 5, and Austin, 3 were devastated after they discovered theirfavourite eight footMinion, inspired by the animated movies Despicable Me andMinions,was taken from their front lawn in Victoria Friday evening.

Strings tethering the decoration to the ground were cut and electrical tape that was wrapped around an extension cord was removed.

Fagan said she called policeandRCMP Const. Terris Bourne told her he'd investigate.

Our children found out even if it was the hard way the true meaning of Christmas.- Crystal Fagan, Victoria

"Our Christmas spirit was dropped so low just because somebody [did] this," said Fagan, who posted a photo of the missing Minion on Facebook.

"Our daughter cried and she said, 'Daddy why couldn't whoever took it just come to the door and ask if they could take it?'"

A generous gift

The next night, the family received a knock on the door it was Const. Bourne and Const. Walter Pynn from the Trinity-Conception detachment.

"They said they haven't foundthe Minion yet, but they said they had a surprise for our kids and Const. Bourne asked Const. Pynn to go out to their vehicle and bring in a surprise," Fagan told CBC News Monday morning.

Pynn then brought over a box containing a brand new Minion decoration.

"[Mackenzie's] face lit up. She said, 'A new Minion, a new Minion! That's like the one that was taken!'"

Fagan said it was fantastic to knowthere are so many good people out there,including thousands who reached out online to show support.

"Our children found out even if it was the hard way the true meaning of Christmas."

Const. Pynn said Monday policestill hope to find the culprit responsible. Officers have even made a funny poster looking for 'Kevinthe Minion's' return.

Fagan said she wanted Pynn and Bourne to be recognized for their kind acts.

If the original Minion is found, Fagan said she will gladly give it to another family.